You’re in Paris for the week. The sun is on full display, and you’ve got an afternoon or two to yourself with nothing to do except make like a Parisian. Here is your foolproof yet simple to do list, put together by City of Lights- dwellers.
PARK IT
The theme of a warm day is simplicity. When the sun comes out, Parisians flock to the park en masse, with and without picnics. Paris has so many beautiful parks and squares. But the secret they aren’t always willing to share is that there are only a few in which you can sit on the grass. In Parc Monceau you can, Parc de Butte Chaumont as well. Place des Vosges too. The Tuileries Gardens doesn’t have much grass, but it’s yours for the taking.
AS FRENCH AS IT GETS
Down by the river, guingettes have opened up, throwbacks to Paris in the 1920s. Little known to non-locals, these pick-up bars where music and dancing – and 1664 Blanc French wheat beer! – are king are the perfect thing to do in Paris on a sun- drenched afternoon. Don’t rush off when the sun goes down and the lights strung all over come on.
At sunset, the city heads out to meet friends for that great French pastime, apéritifs. Café terraces fill up and stay that way till late. Head to the Marais, here some streets are pedestrian-only, a welcome detail in a busy town. And during the summer, head to La Villette for open air cinema. Take a picnic blanket, some friends, and something to keep your 1664 Blanc refreshingly chilled.
Let’s be honest: Even if you only get around to doing 1⁄4 of the things on the list, c’est sur, you’re going to have an exceptional day.